Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Limited Edition Retreats

If you haven't thought about where you want to escape this summer, now is the time. And while it may be no further than the rooftop or the back yard, I love the vicarious thrill of where I MIGHT go one day, and admire people who travel well, with style. Then there's Richard Branson. Instead of just traveling, he's created eight ultimate destinations for himself, which capture the romance of a certain part of the world, and he offers them for rent. Here's some luxury shelter porn for July.

Check out this marketing:

"Virgin Limited Edition is Sir Richard Branson's collection of stunning retreats. Now when we say retreats, we're not just talking hotels - we have a private island, mountain retreat, catamaran, game reserve, lodge, restaurant and a private members club. Eclectic, yes - but all these little gems have a shared thread... they are all unique and operate with the sole aim of creating amazing experiences."

I think this is a very interesting project, and one that has some very nice interior design details tucked into the pics. Take this as inspiration or aspiration (they all take reservations), but at least check out the websites, which are all beautifully styled to match their locale.

The only one missing? Something far, far to the north.

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Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

>> Necker Island: Sir Richard Branson's 74 acre private Island is perhaps one of the most idyllic places on earth. Located in the British Virgin Islands you can hire the Island exclusively for up to 28 guests or share with others during Celebration weeks. The island is meant to be rented out in its entirety.

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Kasbah Tamadot, Morocco

>> Kasbah Tamadot:Stunning views come with every room at Sir Richard Branson's Moroccan retreat set in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains just one hour from Marrakech. This magical hotel boasts 24 stunning bedrooms and suites. Rates for stays start from €360 per room per night.

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Ulusaba, South Africa

>> Ulusaba:Sir Richard Branson's Private Game Reserve in South Africa is located in the Sabi Sand Reserve bordering Kruger National Park. Stay in one of the 21 rooms or suites at either Rock Lodge or Safari Lodge and discover the Big 5 during twice daily game drives and safari walks. Starting at ZAR 4,750

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The Lodge, Verbier, Switzerland

>> The Lodge:Sir Richard Branson's mountain retreat in Verbier, perched high in the Swiss Alps, is the perfect year-round escape. Complete with nine stunning bedrooms and suites, an indoor pool, indoor and outdoor Jacuzzis and a friendly team of experienced staff including an activities coordinator, spa therapist and chef trained by Raymond Blanc, The Lodge is a true alpine paradise. Starting at £530 for a double room.

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Sa Terra Rotja, Mallorca

>> Sa Terra Rotja: Sa Terra Rotja is located on the Son Bunyola Estate which is about 35 minutes drive from Palma and 30 minutes from Deia. Accessed via a private lane off the main road, this villa is definitely for those wanting to get away from it all. The Villa is for private hire only and accommodates 8 guests.

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The Roof Gardens, Kensington, London

>> The Roof Gardens: Located 100ft above Kensington High Street in London, The Roof Gardens and Babylon restaurant are truly spectacular. An amazing Clubhouse for special events for up to 500 guests, a Private Members Club open Friday and Saturday nights and Babylon restaurant!

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The Necker Belle

>> The Necker Belle: Necker Belle, is a magnificent 32 metre catamaran sailing tailor-made itineraries year round. With spacious common areas and four beautifully appointed cabins with ensuites, Necker Belle is perfectly designed for fun and relaxation. Weekly rates start at €60,000